Have you ever read a book that just sucks you in? You are so engaged in the words, you are being compelled by each printed sentence. Sometimes a book provides the new perspective that you needed to help you through a situation. The team at Sunshine and Surrender has compiled a list of our favorite Christian books that helped us in one way or another - whether is provided us with encouragement, a new thought, or something else.
1. Becoming More than a Good Bible Study Girl by Lysa TerKeurst
The back cover of this devotional book states that readers will "learn how to make a Bible passage come alive in devotional time; replace doubt, regret, and envy with truth, confidence, and praise; and strop unhealthy cycles of striving and truly learn to love who you are and what you have been given." This is the perfect book for the person that feels like their might be something missing in their Bible study and devotions.
2. Worldliness: Resisting the Seduction of a Fallen World by C. J. Mahaney
This book, that has a forward by John Piper, is all about what worldliness means for a Christian. Living in the world, it can be hard to not be a part of the world. This book discusses how people can learn to relate to the world without becoming a part of it.
"I like it because its on a topic I believe is really important but rarely talked about by the church." - Deb Bunker
3. Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis
How can you have a list of Christian books and not include a book by C.S. Lewis? This book is written from the point of view of one of Satan's demons. Through this unique and risky perspective for a Christian book, Lewis shows readers what the devil will use to tempt us in subtle ways. A lot of things mentioned in the book are things that we do every day that slowly pull us away from God. Let Lewis drag you outside of your comfort zone and take a look at what is keeping you from experiencing God at His fullest.
4. Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers
This book by the wonderful Francine Rivers is based on the true story of Hosea. Kiley has read this book eight times and every time she reads it, she takes something different out of it. Redeeming Love tells the story of a two people stretched outside of their comfort zone to follow God's plan for their lives. This book illustrates the depths of God's love.
5. Kisses From Katie by Katie Davis (Majors)
Kisses from Katie is a autobiography that tells the story of a young Katie Davis who went to Uganda after high school to follow God's plan for her life. Sometimes God calls us out of our comfort zone. When we step out in faith for what God has for us, it will not be perfect, as He never promises us a perfect life. Yet, when we follow His plan instead of our own, our lives will be more incredible than we could have ever imagined.
6. Fearless by Max Lucado
Paige read this book with her devotional group in her senior year of high school. Fear and worry are two things that almost every one faces. For some, battling fear and worry is a big challenge. This book helps to bring peace, by showing us what can cause fear. Not only does Lucado say what can cause fear, but works to define fear so that we can see it when it comes.
These are just some of our favorite reads. What are your thoughts? Are there any books that you think should have been on our list? We would love to hear about your favorite Christian reads. Comment below with books that have helped you grow in your relationship with Christ.